SCOTMID Co-operative Society has appointed Cath Boyle as its new head of buying and merchandising for its Semichem and Fragrance House subsidiaries.

Boyle, who has more than 30 years' experience in similar roles, joins Scotmid from Internacionale where she was head of buying.

She was also previously buying controller for Poundstretcher in Leeds and head of buying for Topshop and Topman in London.

Colin McLean, chief operating officer at Scotmid, said: "In the highly competitive marketplaces in which we operate it is essential that we bring to the business experienced and knowledgeable individuals who are well respected in the industry.

"That is exactly what Cath brings to the business and I and the rest of the team are looking forward to working with her as she brings a new dimension to both Semichem and the Fragrance House."

Semichem operates a chain of 144discount health and beauty stores in Scotland, Northern Ireland and the north of England while The Fragrance House operates seven Scottish-based stores.